Five Must Manners Before Your Child Turns Five Years Old.

We tend to think that tots are too young to learn manners, but the truth is, they are never too young to start learning.  Charlotte Mason was a woman who taught 9-year-olds Shakespeare. They actually recited Shakespeare!  This was possible because Ms. Mason believed in children and had high expectations of each child. 

If you have goals and aspirations for your child, now is the time to teach him/her good manners. Your child will get further in life and will be liked by playmates, adults and teachers. 

Whenever we see a child act out in public, we immediately blame the parents for not teaching the child good manners.  Young children are like dry sponges, the absorb everything you tell them, show them and teach them. They want to learn how to behave and engage appropriately with others. They want to be liked, respected and valued!

Here are the Five (5) Manners your child must know before turning five years old:

1.  The Magic Words:  How to say “please”, “thank you” and “you’re welcome”. If you can make these words a habit in your home, it will last a lifetime. 

2.  How to sneeze or cough in his/her sleeve and to say “pardon me”.  This will help prevent germs from spreading, especially when your child starts school. The teachers and other parents will appreciate children who know this before they get to school.

3.  How to say sorry and truly mean it.  

4.  How to KNOCK on doors before entering.  This teaches boundaries and privacy.

5.  How to say "Excuse me!"  For a child, waiting 5 minutes is like asking us to wait 30 minutes for a cup of coffee. They are naturally impatient, but if a parent jumps at every beck and call, the child will never learn patience. Instead of letting your child scream, “Mommy, Mommy, Mommy!”, Show your child how to calmly and gently say, “Excuse me, Mommy.”

Next week, we will add to this list.  Also, I have great news!  I am teaching at U-ME Place in Menlo Park, CA on June 22, 2013.  Please see attached flyer and thank you again for following Tea Party Etiquette and for your support!